Designed for uncrewed, autonomous operations, the system offers a stealthy, low mass solution with a modular architecture, enabling users to tailor sensor payload configurations to specific mission requirements.
Evolving threats and growing operational complexity within the underwater battlespace demand new capabilities to outpace the threat. No single organisation can solve these challenges in isolation. By bringing together best of breed, innovative technologies through integration of systems, platforms and networks, we can deliver a decisive operational advantage.Emma Coughlin, Underwater Battlespace Business Development Manager
Herne XLAUV is a military assured capability designed for extended operations, able to operate as a standalone asset, within an uncrewed autonomous task group, or as part of a hybrid navy alongside crewed platforms. It has been developed from the outset as a capability led system, with a modular architecture and reconfigurable payload bays that enable rapid re role of payloads and mission systems. This approach also allows for the integration of leading and emerging technologies to meet evolving user CONOPS across today’s maritime operations and those of the future.
Our highly configurable Extra Large Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (XLAUV)
With a flexible and innovative design approach, it provides a new military capability enabling navies to cover more of the underwater battlespace than ever before.
Working with Thales on the integration of their ISR mast technology - currently in development at their optronics site in Glasgow - onto Herne XLAUV, would deliver enhanced ISR mission ready, military-assured capability.
Thales’ ISR mast is platform agnostic and scalable, and Herne XLAUV is payload agnostic. Together, they would deliver enhanced stealth through exceptionally rapid 360 degree image capture, minimising above surface exposure and maximising ISR effectiveness from underwater platforms.
Establishing collaborative relationships is key to advancing new technologies. Defence primes BAE Systems and Thales have a shared heritage on subsurface platforms, dating back to the introduction of the Valiant class submarine in 1966.
Together, we will harness our combined expertise to redefine sensing for next generation autonomous maritime warfare.